Director of Player Development, Stuart Murdoch said: “It is testament of the progress of the academy that we have three more players signing as first year professionals. Following on from last year when Nathan Sheron and Mamadou Djabi gained contracts, we are delighted that Lewis, Gerard and Dan have followed in their footsteps.”

Under 18’s head coach Nathan Rooney added: “They have been our most consistent performers and have shown big improvements as people in the last two years. Lewis has been a good leader off the pitch and has shown a good attitude from day one. Gerard and Dan have matured on and off the pitch and have improved massively as footballers.

“Now it’s time to roll their sleeves up and maintain the standards on the pitch they have set to enable them to make further progress. I wish the lads all the best as they embark on their next adventure.”

Look out for Lewis, Gerard and Dan as they will be introduced to the crowd prior to Saturday's match with Swindon Town on the Highbury pitch!